NEWARK — In another potential game-changer for the Newark city election, William Payne, patriarch of the longstanding Newark political dynasty, said tonight he would consider running for city council on Shavar Jeffries' ticket if it would help the mayoral candidate win in May.

"If being part of his team would (help Jeffries) then absolutely," Payne, 81, told The Star-Ledger when asked if he was considering a run. "I'm working to make sure that Shavar Jeffries gets elected as mayor and whatever I can do to help that I'm going to do. I really believe very deeply in his campaign and what he's about. He's uniquely qualified for the job."

Payne's brother, Rep. Donald Payne Sr., served Newark for decades in Congress before he died in 2012. But William Payne is a Newark legend in his own right, having served as the first black district leader in Newark's North Ward, a state assemblyman, and his brother's closest confidante.

Rep. Donald Payne Jr. took over his father's seat last year but has yet to make an endorsement.

In addition to endorsing Jeffries, William Payne is co-chairing his campaign. Jeffries is battling South Ward Councilman Ras Baraka to take over as mayor of New Jersey's largest city. Jeffries' council slate has room for one at-large candidate -- the seat Payne would seek.

The South Ward could be in contention if the Payne family fully galvanizes behind Jeffries, potentially taking a big chunk out of Baraka's support. Still, Baraka has a devoted and energetic base of support and has led in previous polls.

"Bill Payne is the co-chairman of the campaign so obviously we think very highly of him," said Lupe Todd, a spokeswoman for the Jeffries campaign. "If he chooses to run for council we think he would make a great councilman."